Friday Favorites #19: Week of 2/27/15

Hey friends! So this morning I am escaping the cold and snow of Michigan with my mom and heading out to Dallas, TX. Now the temperatures there right now are not exactly scorching (30s to 50s), but I'll take it over 9 and below! The reason we're headed down there is to work NCA/NDA All-Star Nationals, a huge cheer and dance competition. I'll be specifically at the dance venue for the weekend. One thing I have been looking forward to for months about this trip is the fact I'm going to be able to see some great people who live down there and work for HQ who I haven't seen in numerous years. They all have been apart of my life since I was in 7th grade and mean the world to me. But before I start rambling too much let me stop myself and get to the point of this post, sharing my favorites from the week.

Giant Cookies:

While I was at work on Thursday I overheard some chit chat in the lobby, but continued to mind my own business and when I came out of my office next I found these sitting at the front desk.

Giant cookies for the taking! When I asked where they had come from I was informed that a representative who we purchase some units from stopped by to say hi and brought them into us. I debated tackling one on my own, however when I picked it up and realized I hadn't had lunch yet...

I decided to split one to forgo a stomach ache. Let me tell you, half was plenty enough. I found a label on the container which said they were from Ramona's Table. I have never heard of this place before, but what I can tell you is the cookies were tasty and they are located in Rockford, MI.

Shellac:

For the past couple weeks I have been getting acrylics and this week I decided to switch back to shellac, which you may have seen me post a picture of Instagram a couple days ago. One of my acrylics broke off Tuesday night before the game and so I ended up taking the rest off prior because just one off the whole night would of bothered me real bad. I know, I know taking nails off on your own isn't the best thing to do...no lecture needed. :p LOL. I went with red since it is both a color of NCA/NDA and the Pistons. When I've been randomly scrolling through Pinterest lately I've noticed a lot of ombre nails being pinned and this time around I decided to give it a go. What do you think??

Dinner + Leftovers:

On Wednesday night I went on an unplanned dinner adventure with a few friends, one of them being Heather who I'm linking up with today, her husband Scott and our friend Simone. We went to this Thai restaurant which I am unfortunately unsure of the name of because it was my first time there and I didn't pay attention the name...bad blogger moment. The food was absolutely delicious and dinner was accompanied by many many laughs! We left feeling bad for the table behind us because we were quite loud, but hey when you're having fun, you're having fun. Upon leaving I realized I had a second bad blogger moment and I didn't snap a picture of my food. That was quite alright though because I had the leftovers for lunch at work on Thursday so I made sure to stop and take a picture! 

Pineapple Fried Rice with Chicken.

Office Decorations:

The last thing I wanted to share for today is my little corner of home away from home, aka my desk at work. I wanted to display things with meaning that could help me through a tough or long day. 

I want to just briefly explain what and why.

1. I received this framed quote from my best friend Kayla for graduation back in May. It couldn't be more perfect for me. I truly believe in the fact we all have our own battles that we are fighting, relative to that persons place in life, and it is important to keep that in mind when we cross paths with one another. 

2. An angel wing that my god-mom got me for this last Christmas from a retreat she went on.

3. A plaque with one of my favorite saying.

4. A reminder to live life for others over myself.

5. Pretty self explanatory; don't settle, keep dreaming.

1. A Mickey Mouse figurine because I am lover of all things Disney and always will be. 

2. A daisy statue because daisies were my grandma's favorite flower and every time I look at it I think of her. My 'Conquer Chiari' bracelet as a reminder of my journey and to be thankful for each day no matter the good or the bad because I am able to wake up everyday and simply live and that in itself is enough. 

3. A glass aerial view of Santorini, Greece that I got on my trip this summer with my family.

4. Mini-basketball symbolizing the blessing I've had these past 2 years being apart of the dance team. 

5. Three little figurines; the elephant was my grandma's, the dolphin to remember my first time swimming with dolphins and the turtle just because it's too cute. The head bobbles!

These elegant notepads are my latest addition to my desk. My very good friend and teammate Lindsey bought them for me because she said that when she saw them she thought of me and couldn't resist. She is such a sweetheart who is always thinking about others.

I hope you all have a wonderful Friday that it continues on to be a great weekend!

I'll be back on Monday for MIMM and can't wait to hear all about them!

What favorite things do you have this week??

❤ Nichole ❤

My Current "Go-To" Quote

Hi everyone! I hope your week is going well. I had planned to publish a post yesterday, but this week has been a lot busier than anticipated. Nonetheless, here we are now! Today I wanted to share with you the quote that I've gone to daily, if not multiple times, for a few months to help me refocus my mindset.

The reason I love this quote is because in just a few simple words it is able to help me remember to not dwell on petty, stupid little things because my (our) time is much too precious for that. When we get stuck in a rut occupying our minds with one situation there are several others that end up passing by and or that we cannot enjoy fully. I've also realized over time that most of those things that we get wrapped up in we have no control over anyways. However, I still end up caught up time and time again. 

I've been consciously working on letting go of things that get inside my head for a while now and coming across this quote 4 months ago was exactly what I needed. I've come across other versions of this quote prior, but for some reason this is the one that finally stuck with me and it has been the background on my phone ever since. By doing that not only is it there each time I unlock my phone for a quick glance, but most importantly, it's always in my back pocket (or purse, or coat, etc.) when I need it.

Do you have a "go-to" quote?

If so, how does it help you?

❤ Nichole ❤

Thinking Out Loud with Amanda!

MIMM #22 {Like Shooting Stars}

Well hello there lovely people! I hope you woke up this morning feeling refreshed from a great weekend. I myself am still living off the fun I had this weekend. A little on the tired side since it didn't include too much rest, however the happiness I'm feeling makes up for it. But before I get to sharing...

Did you hear about the two antennas that met on a roof, feel in love and got married? 

The ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was excellent! 

Hahaha! Hopefully you found that as cute and it made you smile. :) Ok, ok, now I'll get back on track!

Friday:

Was the typical work day, but I was anxiously awaiting the clock to hit 3:00 which surprisingly didn't slow the day down. Usually when I am waiting for a specific thing time just drags on. Whose with me? Anywho, the day went by and come 3 o'clock it officially was game day! I got in my car and headed down to the Palace. It had been over a week since our last home game so I was excited to get back on court.

We had an 80's workout themed dance to Maniac from Flashdance. Everyone's outfits turned out great!

The first half went by really quick and before we knew it we were about to perform halftime with B.o.B. The show went great and then we were on to the second half, which ended in a win for the Pistons!

Saturday:

Started off bright and early headed down for practice. 

One of my teammates Simone brought some snacks for all of us. She said that she stopped because she was hungry and she figured if she was hungry the rest of us were probably hungry. 

And the survey says...she was right.

When I got home I thought a restful afternoon/night was in store. I grabbed some lunch and sat down to watch the NFL Combine with my parents. We were cheering on our friend Ty who was invited.

I was told around 3:30 by my mom that I needed to start to get ready because she, my dad and Billy had a surprise for me. At that point I knew my nap wasn't going to happen lol! We got ready, packed into the car and were on our way to a destination unbeknownst to me. I had no idea what we were doing, but when I found out I was beyond excited. They surprised me with going to Winter Jam. It is a huge concert featuring 10 Christian artists and bands. I have been wanting to go for quite a few years now and I didn't even realize that it was already the time of the year for it or that it was coming close to home!

We had such an amazing time. The last band wrapped up around 10:15 and then we decided to walk around the concourse and check out some of the merchandise booths. One of the bands who performed earlier in the night, for KING & COUNTRY, was on our radar to find. During their set they shared with everyone information about the necklace you see pictured below. I instantly fell in love which what it stood for and knew I didn't want to leave without getting one. Billy and I both did. 

"This penny signifies that a woman is worth more then all the money in the world. It also stands as a reminder to men that ladies are priceless and deserve to be treated with respect and honor."

Sunday:

Was home game #2 of the weekend!

It was kids night and prior to tip-off I was able to hang out at the arts & crafts area that was set up. One of my most favorite parts of my job is being able to interact with fans at the games and events. 

These cuties even let me draw with them! 

After the game >>which Pistons won!<< I was greeted in the lobby by a few guys who currently go to the college I went to and are in the same fraternity as Billy and my brother. It was fun to meet them!

Enough about me already. I want to know what you did this weekend!

❤ Nichole ❤

Linking up for MIMM with Katie!

Friday Favorites #18: Week of 2/20/15

Can I get a woohoo?! Cause it's finally Friday! Now, it has been a while since I've shared any favorites with you all meaning today's post is going to be a little different then the usual. As compared to solely focusing on this week, I'm going to share some of the main things I've loved during my blogging break. 

Ready. Set. Let's go!

Products:

Some old, some new, and some pulled from the back of the cabinet.

Garnier Fructis Beach Spray *new*

So Gorgeous Volumizing Root Mousse *pulled from back*

Sally Hansen "Healthy Cuticles Now!" *old*

eos {evolution of smooth} *old and new*

Shows:

I've talked about my Netflix obsession on here many times before and well, it hasn't changed!

Source

Gossip Girl - finished

One Tree Hill - finished

90210 - current

Pretty Little Liars - current on TV

Music:

My friend Erica told me about Pop2K radio a few weeks ago and it's been my go to ever since.  

Source

Nsync - Pop (01)

Hilary Duff - Wake Up (05)

Uncle Kracker - Smile (09)

Ciara/Missy Elliot - 1,2, Step (04)

Barenaked Ladies - Pinch Me (00)

Black Eyed Peas - Where is the Love (03)

Things:

From the New Year to now. 

Tribal Print Jogger Pants : so comfy and cute

Clash of Clans : thanks to my brother 

Shamrock Shakes : are back for a limited time

Reunited with my bestie Kayla this week: and random shopping

What have you been loving recently?

❤ Nichole ❤

Linking up with Heather!

Want to join in on the fun? Head on over and check her blog out.

Voices In Your Head

In life, it often feels as if we are fighting a battle that we cannot win. Everywhere we turn there is something or someone that makes us feel inferior or like we are not good enough. And if you try to say you've never felt that way at some point, then you are lying to yourself. Sorry to be blunt, but it's true. We all have different insecurities which overtake who we are and how we feel at times throughout our lives. Some of us are better at quieting those voices in our head, then others, however, simply quieting them is not enough. We have to truly believe in ourselves and then, only then can they be overcome. 

As I was driving in the car over this past weekend I heard the song "Try" by Colbie Caillat. I mean it wasn't the first time I have ever listened to this song, but it is the first time I have really heard it. 

I'm not sure if it was because I was in the car by myself or the fact that subconsciously I needed what the song had to offer, nevertheless, I couldn't be more thankful that the lyrics stuck out to me. 

The song lists stereotypes in today's world that make us think certain things and act various ways:

• Put your make-up on
• Get your nails done
• Curl your hair
• Run the extra mile
• Keep it slim 
• Get your sexy on
• Don't be shy, girl, take it off
• Get your shopping on
• Max your credit cards
• You don't have to choose, buy it all

When I looked up the lyrics later on and saw these all written out it hit me how many things we think we have to do to make us appear more beautiful or how we feel we have to act to keep up or what we do to try to fit in. Some of these things listed, we do because we personally enjoy them, but with others comes the feeling of pressure to be liked. I myself get my nails done because I enjoy doing so as well as any time I paint my nails within 2 days they chip so out of convenience it is easier just to get them done. Although when I was in high school, I felt as if I needed to purchase certain clothes to "stay in the in". 

The chorus of the song speaks to how we don't have to conform, all we have to do is get up and be us.

You don't have to try so hard
You don't have to, give it all away

You just have to get up, get up, get up, get up

You don't have to change a single thing

You don't have to try so hard

You don't have to bend until you break

You just have to get up, get up, get up, get up

You don't have to change a single thing

-and my favorite 4 lines of the song being-

Wait a second,
Why, should you care, what they think of you
When you're all alone, by yourself, do you like you?
Do you like you?

What matters most in life is if we are happy with who we are, on the inside. It is not if other people are happy with what we look like on the outside. We have to stop and think if the things we do are for ourselves or for the perception of others. Unfortunately, this is not something that we can flip on a switch...it will take time and it will not always be easy. Honestly, even if we hit the point where we feel 100% secure with ourselves there's still the chance we will have moments of doubt.

Just do yourself a favor and make sure when you're all alone, you like you. 
Don't let any voices in your head tell you otherwise.

Questions of the Day:

1) Is there a specific stereotype you've ever fallen into trying to follow?

2) What things have helped you quiet the voices in your head?

3) Which songs do you know that portray a similar message?

❤ Nichole ❤

If you haven't heard the song before and or if you could use the reminder that you are perfect the way you are be sure to listen below. The video is also, well, amazing. I got chills when I first watched it. 

Sharing this post over on Running with Spoons for the Thinking Out Loud link-up!!

MIMM #21 {Valentine's Weekend}

Hi everyone! It's been a while since Marvelous in my Monday made an appearance on the blog and in case you are unsure of what MIMM is, well, it's where we recap the high points of our weekends to kick start the week on a positive note. Take that Monday! =) Linking up with the lovely Katie. 

Friday:
The highlight of my Friday was hanging out with my dad and boyfriend - Billy - and then heading to the movies. It wasn't too hard of a choice to decide what to see since the boys had been long awaiting to see American Sniper so of course I was out numbered. I love action films, but war movies are not usually my first choice. This one however, wow...it was incredible. If you are not one for violent movies, then I would not recommend going and seeing it. If it doesn't bother you, it is a must see.

Source

Saturday:

Billy and I planned to have a relaxed Valentine's Day, which was exactly what we both needed. I took the morning to sleep in with no alarm set and then headed over to his house once I got up and moving. Around 12:30 I headed on my way and walked into a table filled with goodies. {pictured below!}

We exchanged gifts, left to grab lunch and then go to the gym. After the gym we made a random stop at Big Lots to browse around, which turned into shopping around. Once we finished up we headed back to Billy's for the rest of the night to watch a couple of the movies that he rented from RedBox. Perfection<3

Sunday:
Okay, okay the temperature over the weekend was not a high point, but I decide Sunday morning that it had to be recorded as it was the coldest my car had shown. I guess at the point that my car was saying -9 the "feels like" temperature was -25. "insert shocked emoji face here" Yea, it can warm up now. 

When I got home from practice I met my parents and Billy at the gym. I didn't workout myself, but did hop in the tanner. From there my parents were headed down for their Valentine's celebration to the Barry Manilow concert and Billy and I were off to get sushi! Absolutely delicious.

At one point during the day when I was scrolling through twitter and came across this Disney quote. It made me think, assessing a few different recent scenarios in my life where I didn't understand why I couldn't understand. Often it gets frustrating when something happens and we can't put our finger on it as to of why, but that's life. We aren't supposed to get everything that happens. Instead we have to take those things with a grain of salt and not dwell. Easier said then done right? Trust me, I know. I can't even count the number of times where I have been hung up on a situation because I couldn't figure it out. This is something I need to work on and scrolling across this tweet helped remind me.

Questions of the Day:
1) Have you seen any good movies lately?
2) How was your Valentine's Day?
3) Is the weather below zero where you are right now?

Share the marvelous of your weekend!

❤ Nichole ❤

Date Crate To The Rescue

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, well..tomorrow, the subject of what to do and what to get has to be on one's mind. If you don't have the knack for it, planning dates and picking out gifts can be difficult. Man Crates is a company that works to make this process simpler and not to mention fun! They have various themed "crates" full of goodies. The crates can work to provide a guy with the necessities for a date and or can be a great gift purchase for a girl who can't decide what to buy her guy. If the idea of a crate such of this isn't already unique enough the packaging sure does set them apart! Yes, you guessed it all the "stuff" comes packaged in a crate. The catch? The crate has to be opened via a crowbar and for an additional cost wrapped with duct tape. Different from the usual and fun right!

I was contacted not to long ago by Man Crates to see if I would brainstorm some date ideas and write a post sharing my recommendations. Well, I've  brainstormed and here it goes!

Sunset, Dinner & A Wish

Who doesn't love watching a pretty sunset? I know I do. There is so much peace in getting lost watching the sky colors change until the sun disappears below the horizon. Pair that with dinner, pure perfection. 

If you want some help with dinner make sure to check out the Grill Master Crate.

Source

To continue the evening after the sun goes down why not have a wish lantern waiting in the car to light off together. Also, be sure to have a sharpie so you both can write a wish before you send it off. 

Playing to One's Interest

A date idea that I tend to think can get overlooked is catering the whole night to the things your significant other likes and enjoys. It shows thoughtfulness for the one you are with and care that you took the time to plan something specifically for them. 

If you date is a gamer the crate that could help personalize the night would be the Super Retro Gamer. 

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RedBox Date Crate

You can never fail with the classic movie night. It works on so many different occasions especially if it's been a long week or someone is sick. Grab a movie, snacks, and pop the popcorn. If you want to add a little more to the date to set it apart from the usual, light some candles around the couch. 

Check out The Snack Pack Crate which has most all of the movie night essentials!

Source

Whose looking forward to their next date night right now?! I want to say thank you to Man Crates for giving me the opportunity to get a little creative and share some date crate ideas of my own!

What type of date nights do you enjoy the best?!

❤ Nichole ❤

Disclaimer: I did not receive any sort of compensation by Man Crates to write this post. 

My Blogcation Has Come To An End!

Why hello there everyone! My oh my its been way too long since I last sat down to write a blog post. The reason I have been away from the blogosphere lately is because I have been trying to figure out my place in the "real world." Now, I have come to realize this will not just happen in a few months and rather it is an ongoing process for the rest of my life, I did realize how much I sincerely miss blogging. 

I never planned to stop blogging completely, I would tell myself (and others) that I was going to eventually get back to it. The thing is, I wasn't doing anything to try to speed up the process of starting up again. Then it became easier and easier to say someday soon or the time isn't right yet. 

However, when you are passionate about something, such as blogging, you have make the time. 

When I first began blogging the time to sit down and write up a post came without having to think about it. Since this was the only association I had between time and blog posts, I was unsure of how to balance time when life changed after graduation. Although I've missed many months, this time away actually has become quite a blessing in disguise. It helped me rediscover how important making a conscious effort in keeping the things that matter most to you in the forefront of your life truly is. 

With that all said, my blogcation is over and I am so glad to be back!

When in your life has taking a step back turned out to be beneficial and eye-opening?

❤ Nichole ❤